“Pray for us, for we are sure that we have a clear conscience, desiring to act honorably in all things. I urge you to do this in order that I may be restored to you the sooner.”

One truth is evident in this verse. We all need prayer, and we all need to pray. Even the author, who is certain that his conscience is clear, his motives pure, and his actions are with honor, feels the need for other’s prayers. Every day, if we make ourselves available, someone will be asking us to pray for them or someone they love. Every day, if we are wise, we will be asking someone to pray for us.

What is the reasoning behind this request? Why is so much said about praying for ourselves as well as others? Is it not that the requester believes that prayer is effective? Why do we engage in prayer for others? Is it not that we believe God answers those prayers. The scriptures assure us that the fervent prayers of the righteous are effective. God is swayed by the prayer of His saints.

Task for Today: Follow the writer’s example. Seek all the prayer you can receive. Pray for as many as you can. There is only one limit to the power of prayer, and that is your faith. Even little prayers, prayers smaller than a mustard seed are heard by God. The writer suggests that things happen quicker with prayer. Interesting thought, isn’t it. “Come quickly, Lord Jesus.”